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A2 adjective #1,900 le plus courant 13 min de lecture

gerecht

Top 1,900

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to the most basic and fundamental vocabulary needed for everyday survival and simple interactions. While 'gerecht' is technically an A2 word, an A1 learner might encounter it in very simple contexts, often translated simply as 'fair'. At this stage, the focus is on understanding the basic meaning rather than complex grammatical structures. A learner might hear 'Das ist nicht gerecht!' (That is not fair!) on a playground or in a simple story. They learn to associate the word with feelings of equality and rightness. The grammatical application is limited to simple predicative sentences using the verb 'sein' (to be), such as 'Der Lehrer ist gerecht' (The teacher is fair). They do not yet need to worry about complex adjective declensions or the dative construction 'gerecht werden'. The primary goal is recognition and basic comprehension. Teachers might use visual aids, like showing two children sharing an apple equally, to illustrate the concept of 'gerecht'. The antonym 'ungerecht' (unfair) is also introduced as a pair to help solidify the meaning through contrast. At this foundational level, 'gerecht' is a stepping stone to expressing basic emotions and opinions about how people are treated, paving the way for more nuanced discussions in later stages of learning.

At the A2 level, 'gerecht' becomes an active part of the learner's vocabulary. Learners are now expected to use the word to describe people, situations, and simple decisions. They begin to apply basic adjective endings, learning to say 'ein gerechter Lehrer' (a fair teacher) or 'eine gerechte Entscheidung' (a fair decision) in the nominative and accusative cases. The contexts in which they use the word expand from simple playground fairness to broader everyday situations, such as discussing rules at school, chores at home, or basic interactions in a shop. They can express their opinions more clearly, stating 'Ich finde das gerecht' (I find that fair) or 'Das ist ungerecht' (That is unfair). The concept of 'gerecht' helps A2 learners articulate their feelings about rules and treatment, which is crucial for navigating social interactions in a German-speaking environment. While they might still occasionally confuse it with 'richtig' (correct), they are developing a better sense of its moral and ethical implications. They might also be introduced to the English loanword 'fair' as a synonym, understanding that both words can be used in casual conversation. The focus at this level is on building confidence in using 'gerecht' attributively and predicatively in familiar, everyday contexts.

At the B1 level, the use of 'gerecht' becomes significantly more sophisticated. Learners are now capable of engaging in deeper conversations about society, rules, and ethics. They can discuss topics like 'soziale Gerechtigkeit' (social justice) in a simplified manner, expressing opinions on whether certain laws or societal structures are fair. Grammatically, they are expected to master adjective declension across all four cases, confidently using phrases like 'mit einem gerechten Urteil' (with a fair verdict). Crucially, B1 learners are introduced to the important dative construction 'jemandem/etwas gerecht werden' (to do justice to someone/something). They learn to use it in sentences like 'Der Film wird dem Buch nicht gerecht' (The film doesn't do justice to the book) or 'Er versucht, allen gerecht zu werden' (He tries to be fair to everyone). This construction marks a significant step forward in their ability to express complex relationships and evaluations. They also begin to encounter and understand compound adjectives ending in '-gerecht', such as 'umweltgerecht' (environmentally friendly) or 'kindergerecht' (child-friendly), recognizing how the core concept of fairness is applied to specific domains. At this stage, 'gerecht' is no longer just a simple descriptor; it is a tool for critical thinking and nuanced expression in German.

At the B2 level, learners possess a strong command of 'gerecht' and its various applications. They can participate in complex discussions and debates about politics, law, and morality, using 'gerecht' to articulate sophisticated arguments. They understand the subtle distinctions between 'gerecht', 'fair', 'angemessen' (appropriate), and 'berechtigt' (justified), choosing the most precise word for their intended meaning. The phrase 'gerecht werden' is used naturally and correctly with the dative case in both spoken and written German. B2 learners can comprehend authentic texts, such as newspaper articles or opinion pieces, where 'gerecht' is used to analyze societal issues, tax policies, or judicial decisions. They are comfortable with abstract concepts like 'Verteilungsgerechtigkeit' (distributive justice) or 'Generationengerechtigkeit' (intergenerational equity). In professional contexts, they can discuss 'leistungsgerechte Bezahlung' (performance-based fair pay) or 'fachgerechte Ausführung' (professional execution). The word 'gerecht' is fully integrated into their active vocabulary, allowing them to express their values, critique systems, and engage deeply with German culture and societal norms. They can also recognize irony or sarcasm when the word is used to describe an obviously unfair situation.

At the C1 level, the understanding and usage of 'gerecht' approach near-native proficiency. Learners can navigate highly complex, abstract, and academic texts where 'gerecht' is a central theme. They can engage in philosophical discussions about the nature of justice, distinguishing between legal correctness ('rechtmäßig') and moral fairness ('gerecht'). They effortlessly use a wide array of compound adjectives based on '-gerecht' and can even creatively form new ones if the context demands it, understanding the morphological rules perfectly. The construction 'gerecht werden' is used with high precision to evaluate literature, art, professional performance, and complex situations. C1 learners are sensitive to the register and tone, knowing exactly when 'gerecht' carries a heavy, formal weight and when a lighter synonym like 'fair' might be more appropriate. They can analyze political speeches or legal documents, identifying how the concept of 'Gerechtigkeit' is employed rhetorically to persuade or justify actions. Their use of the word is characterized by fluency, accuracy, and a deep cultural understanding of what fairness means in a German-speaking context. They can write sophisticated essays or reports arguing for or against the fairness of a particular policy or system.

At the C2 level, the mastery of 'gerecht' is absolute. The learner possesses an intuitive, native-like grasp of the word's semantics, pragmatics, and cultural connotations. They can effortlessly employ 'gerecht' in the most demanding contexts, including advanced academic discourse, complex legal arguments, and nuanced literary analysis. They understand the historical evolution of the concept of 'Gerechtigkeit' in German philosophy and literature. They can play with the word, using it in idiomatic expressions, metaphors, and rhetorical devices with complete naturalness. Their vocabulary includes highly specialized compounds and derivatives, and they can articulate the most subtle distinctions between 'gerecht' and its near-synonyms with precision. At this level, 'gerecht' is not just a vocabulary item; it is a conceptual tool used to dissect and evaluate the world with the same depth and sophistication as a highly educated native speaker. They can critically analyze how the term is manipulated in media and politics, recognizing underlying biases and assumptions. Their command of 'gerecht' reflects a profound integration into the German language and its cultural and intellectual heritage.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

gerecht en 30 secondes

Means 'fair' or 'just' in English.
Used for decisions, people, and laws.
Opposite is 'ungerecht' (unfair).
Requires dative in 'gerecht werden'.

The German adjective 'gerecht' is a profound and multifaceted term that translates primarily to 'fair' or 'just' in English. Understanding its depth requires an exploration of both its linguistic roots and its application in contemporary German society. The concept of being 'gerecht' touches upon fundamental human values, ethics, morality, and the legal frameworks that govern our daily lives. When we describe a person, a decision, a system, or an action as 'gerecht', we are making a significant value judgment. We are asserting that the subject in question aligns with a universally or contextually accepted standard of fairness, equity, and moral rightness. This is not merely about following rules; it is about the spirit of the law and the ethical treatment of individuals. In everyday conversations, you might hear someone say that a teacher's grading is 'gerecht', meaning that the teacher evaluates all students based on the same criteria without bias or favoritism. In a broader societal context, discussions about 'soziale Gerechtigkeit' (social justice) are ubiquitous in German political discourse. Here, being 'gerecht' involves ensuring that wealth, opportunities, and privileges are distributed equitably among all members of society. The word itself is derived from the noun 'Recht', which means 'law' or 'right'. Therefore, to be 'gerecht' is fundamentally to be in accordance with what is right or lawful. However, the semantic field of 'gerecht' extends far beyond mere legality. A law itself can be debated as to whether it is 'gerecht' or 'ungerecht' (unjust). This distinction highlights the philosophical underpinnings of the word, where moral justice supersedes statutory law. Furthermore, 'gerecht' is often used in combination with other words to create specific nuances. For instance, 'leistungsgerecht' refers to fairness based on performance or effort, often used in the context of salaries or compensation. 'Artgerecht' is used in animal welfare to describe conditions that are appropriate and fair for a specific species. These compound words demonstrate the versatility and the cultural importance of the concept of fairness in the German language. To fully grasp 'gerecht', learners must also understand its antonym, 'ungerecht', which evokes strong feelings of indignation and grievance. When someone feels treated 'ungerecht', it often leads to conflict or a demand for rectification. Thus, mastering the use of 'gerecht' allows learners not only to describe situations accurately but also to participate in deeper conversations about values, ethics, and societal norms in German-speaking environments. The application of this word spans across various domains, from the playground where children demand fair play, to the courtroom where judges strive for just verdicts, and into the political arena where policies are scrutinized for their equitable impact. It is a word that carries weight and significance, reflecting the cultural emphasis on order, fairness, and the rule of law in German-speaking countries. By integrating 'gerecht' into your vocabulary, you gain access to a crucial dimension of German expression, enabling you to articulate complex thoughts about morality and fairness with precision and nuance.

Definition: Acting in accordance with what is morally right and fair.

Usage: Used to describe people, decisions, laws, and distributions.

Context: Common in legal, ethical, and everyday social discussions.

Das Urteil des Richters war absolut gerecht.

Wir fordern eine gerechte Bezahlung für alle.

Es ist nicht gerecht, dass er mehr bekommt.

Sie ist eine sehr gerechte Lehrerin.

Die Verteilung der Aufgaben muss gerecht sein.

Using the adjective 'gerecht' correctly in German involves understanding its grammatical properties, particularly its declension and its use in specific syntactic structures. As a standard adjective, 'gerecht' follows the typical rules of German adjective endings depending on the gender, case, and number of the noun it modifies, as well as the preceding article. For example, with a definite article, you would say 'der gerechte Richter' (the fair judge), 'die gerechte Entscheidung' (the fair decision), or 'das gerechte Urteil' (the fair verdict). With an indefinite article, it becomes 'ein gerechter Richter', 'eine gerechte Entscheidung', and 'ein gerechtes Urteil'. When used predicatively, meaning after verbs like 'sein' (to be), 'werden' (to become), or 'bleiben' (to remain), the adjective does not take an ending. For instance, 'Das Urteil ist gerecht' (The verdict is fair). This predicative use is extremely common in everyday speech when evaluating situations or actions. Beyond simple attribution, 'gerecht' is frequently used in a highly specific and important construction: 'jemandem/etwas gerecht werden'. This phrase requires the dative case and translates to 'to do justice to someone/something' or 'to meet the demands/expectations of something'. For example, 'Er wird seiner Rolle gerecht' means 'He does justice to his role' or 'He lives up to his role'. This construction is vital for advanced proficiency as it expresses a nuanced relationship between a subject and an expectation or standard. Another common usage pattern involves combining 'gerecht' with nouns to form compound adjectives that describe specific types of fairness. Examples include 'umweltgerecht' (environmentally sound/fair to the environment), 'zeitgerecht' (timely/appropriate for the times), and 'kindergerecht' (child-friendly/suitable for children). These compounds are highly productive in German and allow for precise descriptions in various professional and social contexts. When negating 'gerecht', the prefix 'un-' is used, forming 'ungerecht' (unfair/unjust). The rules for declension and usage apply identically to the negated form. Furthermore, 'gerecht' can be graded, though its philosophical absolute nature sometimes makes the comparative and superlative forms less common in strict legal contexts. However, in everyday language, you can certainly say 'Das ist gerechter' (That is fairer) or 'Das ist die gerechteste Lösung' (That is the fairest solution). Understanding these grammatical nuances ensures that you can deploy 'gerecht' accurately across a wide range of contexts, from simple descriptions to complex evaluations of performance and suitability. Mastery of the 'gerecht werden' construction, in particular, will significantly elevate your German expression, making it sound more native and sophisticated. Practice modifying different nouns with 'gerecht' in all four cases to build confidence in its application.

Predicative: Das ist gerecht. (No ending required)

Attributive: Ein gerechtes System. (Takes standard adjective endings)

Dative Phrase: Einer Sache gerecht werden. (To do justice to something)

Der Film wird dem Buch nicht gerecht.

Wir suchen nach einer gerechten Lösung für alle Beteiligten.

Ist das wirklich eine gerechte Strafe?

Er versucht, allen gerecht zu werden.

Das ist die gerechteste Art, den Kuchen zu teilen.

The word 'gerecht' permeates almost every level of German society, reflecting the cultural importance placed on fairness, order, and equity. You will encounter this word in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from informal family disputes to highly formal legal proceedings. In the domestic sphere, 'gerecht' is often heard among siblings arguing over the division of treats or chores. A child might complain, 'Das ist nicht gerecht!' (That's not fair!) if they feel a sibling received a larger portion of cake or fewer responsibilities. Parents, in turn, strive to be 'gerecht' in their treatment of their children, ensuring equal attention and discipline. Moving into the educational environment, 'gerecht' is a critical concept. Students frequently discuss whether a teacher's grading system is 'gerecht' or whether a test accurately and fairly assessed their knowledge. A 'gerechter Lehrer' (fair teacher) is highly respected, as they are perceived to evaluate students objectively, without favoritism. In the workplace, discussions about fairness often center around compensation and workload. Employees advocate for a 'gerechte Bezahlung' (fair pay) or a 'leistungsgerechte Vergütung' (performance-based fair compensation). Labor unions frequently use the term when negotiating contracts, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment of workers. The political arena is perhaps where 'gerecht' is used most prominently and philosophically. Political parties across the spectrum debate what constitutes 'soziale Gerechtigkeit' (social justice). Debates over tax policies, social welfare programs, and healthcare are fundamentally arguments about what is the most 'gerecht' way to organize society and distribute resources. Politicians promise 'gerechte' solutions to complex problems, appealing to the electorate's sense of moral rightness. In the legal system, 'gerecht' is the foundational goal. Judges are tasked with delivering a 'gerechtes Urteil' (just verdict) that aligns with both the letter of the law and the principles of equity. The justice system itself is often evaluated based on its ability to produce 'gerechte' outcomes. Furthermore, in the media, journalists analyze events and decisions through the lens of fairness, questioning whether government actions or corporate behaviors are 'gerecht'. You will also hear it in sports, where fans and players demand 'gerechte' refereeing and fair play. The ubiquity of 'gerecht' in these diverse settings underscores its status as a core value in German-speaking cultures. Whether you are reading a newspaper, watching a political debate, or simply listening to a conversation at a cafe, the concept of fairness, encapsulated by the word 'gerecht', is a recurring and essential theme.

Everyday Life: Used in disputes over fairness, sharing, and equal treatment.

Politics: Central to debates on social justice, taxes, and welfare.

Legal System: The ultimate goal of courts is to reach a 'gerechtes' verdict.

Die Diskussion über eine gerechte Steuerreform reißt nicht ab.

Kinder haben ein feines Gespür dafür, was gerecht ist.

Im Sport muss es immer gerecht zugehen.

Der Richter bemühte sich um ein gerechtes Strafmaß.

Gewerkschaften kämpfen für gerechte Arbeitsbedingungen.

When learning and using the German word 'gerecht', several common pitfalls can trip up even intermediate learners. One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing 'gerecht' with 'richtig' (correct/right). While an action can be both correct and fair, the words are not perfectly synonymous. 'Richtig' refers to factual accuracy or following a specific rule, whereas 'gerecht' implies a moral or ethical dimension of fairness. For example, a math answer is 'richtig', not 'gerecht'. A teacher's grading policy, however, can be 'gerecht'. Another significant area of confusion arises with the English loanword 'fair', which is widely used in modern German. While 'fair' and 'gerecht' overlap significantly in everyday speech (e.g., 'Das ist nicht fair' vs. 'Das ist nicht gerecht'), 'gerecht' carries a heavier, more formal, and often more profound moral weight. 'Fair' is frequently used in sports or casual interactions, while 'gerecht' is preferred in legal, political, and deep ethical discussions. Grammatically, the most persistent mistake involves the phrase 'jemandem/etwas gerecht werden' (to do justice to someone/something). Learners often forget that this construction strictly requires the dative case. A common error is using the accusative, saying 'Ich werde ihn gerecht' instead of the correct 'Ich werde ihm gerecht'. This error immediately marks the speaker as a non-native and alters the grammatical structure of the sentence. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the formation of compound adjectives using '-gerecht'. While it is a productive suffix, one cannot simply attach it to any noun. It is best to learn established compounds like 'umweltgerecht' (environmentally friendly) or 'fachgerecht' (professional/proper) rather than inventing new ones, which might sound unnatural to a native speaker. Another subtle mistake is overusing 'gerecht' when 'berechtigt' (justified) is more appropriate. If someone has a valid reason to be angry, their anger is 'berechtigt', not 'gerecht'. 'Gerecht' describes the nature of an action or system, while 'berechtigt' describes whether someone has the right or justification to feel or do something. Finally, learners must ensure they apply the correct adjective endings when using 'gerecht' attributively before a noun. Forgetting the ending or applying the wrong one based on gender and case is a standard grammatical error that affects all adjectives, but it is particularly noticeable with common, impactful words like 'gerecht'. By being mindful of these distinctions—especially the dative requirement of 'gerecht werden' and the semantic differences between 'gerecht', 'richtig', and 'berechtigt'—learners can significantly improve their accuracy and sound more natural when discussing fairness in German.

gerecht vs. richtig: 'gerecht' means fair/just; 'richtig' means correct/factual.

gerecht vs. berechtigt: 'gerecht' describes fairness; 'berechtigt' means justified or having the right to.

Case Error: Using accusative instead of dative with 'gerecht werden'.

Falsch: Das Ergebnis der Rechnung ist gerecht. (Richtig: richtig)

Falsch: Ich werde den Anspruch gerecht. (Richtig: dem Anspruch)

Falsch: Seine Wut ist gerecht. (Richtig: berechtigt)

Richtig: Wir müssen den Anforderungen gerecht werden.

Richtig: Das war eine gerechte Entscheidung der Jury.

The German language offers a rich vocabulary for expressing concepts related to fairness, justice, and appropriateness, providing several alternatives and nuances to the word 'gerecht'. Understanding these similar words helps learners choose the most precise term for their specific context. The most direct and commonly used synonym is the English loanword 'fair'. In modern German, 'fair' is ubiquitous, especially in sports, casual conversations, and business contexts (e.g., 'ein fairer Preis' - a fair price). While highly interchangeable with 'gerecht' in everyday speech, 'fair' tends to lack the deep moral and legal gravity that 'gerecht' possesses. Another important related word is 'angemessen', which translates to 'appropriate', 'reasonable', or 'adequate'. While a 'gerechte Strafe' (just punishment) focuses on the moral balance, an 'angemessene Strafe' focuses on the punishment being proportional and suitable to the crime. 'Angemessen' is often used in professional and formal contexts regarding compensation, behavior, or reactions. 'Berechtigt' is another crucial term, meaning 'justified' or 'legitimate'. As mentioned in the common mistakes section, you use 'berechtigt' when someone has a valid reason or right to do something (e.g., 'eine berechtigte Frage' - a justified question). It focuses on the rightness of the origin of an action rather than the fairness of its outcome. In legal and highly formal contexts, you might encounter 'rechtmäßig', which means 'lawful' or 'legal'. An action can be 'rechtmäßig' (according to the law) without necessarily being perceived as 'gerecht' (morally fair), highlighting the classic philosophical distinction between law and justice. 'Objektiv' (objective) is also related, as a fair decision is often expected to be an objective one, free from personal bias. When discussing the equal treatment of people, 'gleichberechtigt' (having equal rights) is a key term, particularly in contexts of gender equality or civil rights. By exploring these synonyms and related terms, learners can develop a more nuanced and sophisticated German vocabulary. Choosing between 'gerecht', 'fair', 'angemessen', and 'berechtigt' allows you to express exactly what kind of 'rightness' or 'fairness' you mean, whether it is moral, proportional, justified, or simply casual equity.

fair: Casual, modern synonym, often used in sports and business.

angemessen: Appropriate, proportional, suitable for the situation.

berechtigt: Justified, having a valid reason or right.

Das war ein sehr faires Angebot von ihm.

Ihre Reaktion auf die Kritik war völlig angemessen.

Seine Sorgen bezüglich des Projekts sind absolut berechtigt.

Die Polizei handelte in dieser Situation rechtmäßig.

Männer und Frauen sollten gleichberechtigt sein.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Informel

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Exemples par niveau

Das ist nicht gerecht!

That is not fair!

Simple predicative use with the verb 'sein'.

Der Lehrer ist sehr gerecht.

The teacher is very fair.

Used as a predicate adjective.

Ist das gerecht?

Is that fair?

Question form using 'sein'.

Wir teilen den Apfel gerecht.

We share the apple fairly.

Used as an adverb modifying 'teilen'.

Das Spiel war nicht gerecht.

The game was not fair.

Past tense simple sentence.

Sie ist eine gerechte Frau.

She is a fair woman.

Attributive use with indefinite article, taking '-e' ending.

Ich finde das gerecht.

I find that fair.

Used with the verb 'finden' to express opinion.

Alles muss gerecht sein.

Everything must be fair.

Used with a modal verb.

Die Entscheidung des Schiedsrichters war gerecht.

The referee's decision was fair.

Predicative use in a slightly more complex sentence.

Wir brauchen eine gerechte Lösung für das Problem.

We need a fair solution to the problem.

Attributive use, accusative case, feminine.

Es ist schwer, immer gerecht zu sein.

It is hard to always be fair.

Infinitive clause with 'zu'.

Er hat eine gerechte Strafe bekommen.

He received a fair punishment.

Attributive use, accusative case.

Das Geld wurde gerecht verteilt.

The money was distributed fairly.

Used as an adverb with passive voice.

Ich versuche, ein gerechter Chef zu sein.

I try to be a fair boss.

Attributive use, nominative case, masculine.

Ihre Noten sind immer gerecht.

Her grades are always fair.

Plural subject with predicative adjective.

Gerechte Regeln sind wichtig für alle.

Fair rules are important for everyone.

Attributive use, plural, no article.

Der Film wird dem Buch leider nicht gerecht.

Unfortunately, the film does not do justice to the book.

Introduction of the dative construction 'etwas gerecht werden'.

Wir fordern eine gerechtere Bezahlung für Pflegekräfte.

We demand fairer pay for nursing staff.

Comparative form 'gerechtere'.

Es ist eine Frage der sozialen Gerechtigkeit.

It is a question of social justice.

Using the noun form 'Gerechtigkeit'.

Man kann es nicht immer allen gerecht machen.

You can't always please everyone / be fair to everyone.

Common idiom using 'gerecht machen'.

Die Steuern sollten nach Einkommen gerecht gestaffelt sein.

Taxes should be fairly tiered according to income.

Adverbial use in a complex passive sentence.

Er hat sich sehr um ein gerechtes Urteil bemüht.

He tried very hard to reach a fair verdict.

Prepositional phrase with 'um'.

Diese Arbeitsbedingungen sind absolut nicht menschengerecht.

These working conditions are absolutely not humane/fair to humans.

Use of the compound adjective 'menschengerecht'.

Ich hoffe, dass die Verhandlung gerecht verlaufen wird.

I hope that the trial will proceed fairly.

Adverbial use in a subordinate clause.

Den komplexen Anforderungen dieses Projekts gerecht zu werden, ist eine große Herausforderung.

Meeting the complex demands of this project is a great challenge.

Extended infinitive clause with dative object.

Eine leistungsgerechte Vergütung motiviert die Mitarbeiter nachhaltig.

Performance-based fair compensation motivates employees sustainably.

Use of specific compound 'leistungsgerecht'.

Die Kritik an seinem Verhalten war in jeder Hinsicht gerechtfertigt und gerecht.

The criticism of his behavior was justified and fair in every respect.

Combining 'gerecht' with related concept 'gerechtfertigt'.

Es bedarf einer gerechten Verteilung der globalen Ressourcen.

There is a need for a fair distribution of global resources.

Genitive case after 'bedürfen'.

Trotz der schwierigen Umstände fällte das Gericht ein bemerkenswert gerechtes Urteil.

Despite the difficult circumstances, the court delivered a remarkably fair verdict.

Attributive use in a formal context.

Sie fühlte sich vom System ungerecht behandelt und legte Beschwerde ein.

She felt treated unfairly by the system and filed a complaint.

Use of the antonym 'ungerecht' as an adverb.

Eine altersgerechte Betreuung ist für die Entwicklung der Kinder essenziell.

Age-appropriate care is essential for the children's development.

Use of compound 'altersgerecht'.

Die Debatte drehte sich darum, was in dieser Situation als gerecht empfunden wird.

The debate revolved around what is perceived as fair in this situation.

Passive construction with 'empfinden als'.

Die philosophische Frage, was eine gerechte Gesellschaft ausmacht, beschäftigt Denker seit Jahrtausenden.

The philosophical question of what constitutes a just society has occupied thinkers for millennia.

Abstract, academic context.

Der Autor wird der historischen Komplexität der Epoche in seinem Roman durchaus gerecht.

The author certainly does justice to the historical complexity of the era in his novel.

Sophisticated use of 'gerecht werden' with abstract dative noun.

Eine bloß formale Gleichbehandlung führt nicht zwingend zu materiell gerechten Ergebnissen.

Mere formal equal treatment does not necessarily lead to materially just outcomes.

Legal/sociological terminology ('materiell gerecht').

Die Reform zielt darauf ab, eine generationengerechte Rentenfinanzierung zu etablieren.

The reform aims to establish an intergenerationally fair pension financing system.

Highly specific compound 'generationengerecht'.

Es ist ein schmaler Grat zwischen berechtigter Kritik und ungerechter Diffamierung.

It is a fine line between justified criticism and unfair defamation.

Contrasting 'berechtigt' and 'ungerecht'.

Das Urteil wurde in Fachkreisen als wegweisend und zutiefst gerecht gewürdigt.

The verdict was praised in professional circles as groundbreaking and deeply just.

Advanced vocabulary ('würdigen', 'wegweisend').

Um den ökologischen Herausforderungen gerecht zu werden, bedarf es eines radikalen Umdenkens.

To meet the ecological challenges, a radical rethink is required.

Infinitive clause expressing purpose.

Die Zuteilung der Fördermittel erfolgte nach strengen, transparenten und gerechten Kriterien.

The allocation of funding was carried out according to strict, transparent, and fair criteria.

Listing adjectives in formal writing.

Die Diskrepanz zwischen positivem Recht und dem intuitiven Empfinden für das, was gerecht ist, bildet den Kern vieler juristischer Dramen.

The discrepancy between positive law and the intuitive sense of what is just forms the core of many legal dramas.

Highly abstract philosophical discourse.

Er verstand es meisterhaft, den divergierenden Interessen der Stakeholder gerecht zu werden, ohne seine eigenen Prinzipien zu verraten.

He masterfully understood how to do justice to the diverging interests of the stakeholders without betraying his own principles.

Complex sentence structure with multiple clauses.

Die Forderung nach einer bedarfsgerechten und zugleich leistungsgerechten Entlohnung gleicht oft der Quadratur des Kreises.

The demand for remuneration that is both needs-based and performance-based often resembles squaring the circle.

Use of multiple complex compounds and an idiom.

In der Retrospektive erscheint die damalige Entscheidung als ein Akt historischer Gerechtigkeit, wenngleich sie zeitgenössisch als ungerecht gebrandmarkt wurde.

In retrospect, the decision at the time appears as an act of historical justice, even though it was branded as unjust contemporaneously.

Academic historical analysis.

Die Subtilität, mit der die Autorin den moralischen Ambivalenzen ihrer Protagonisten gerecht wird, zeugt von höchster literarischer Qualität.

The subtlety with which the author does justice to the moral ambivalences of her protagonists testifies to the highest literary quality.

Literary criticism context.

Eine rein utilitaristische Ethik läuft Gefahr, den individuellen Rechten des Einzelnen nicht hinreichend gerecht zu werden.

A purely utilitarian ethic runs the risk of not doing sufficient justice to the individual rights of the single person.

Philosophical/ethical debate.

Das Streben nach einer absolut gerechten Weltordnung mag eine Utopie sein, doch bleibt es ein unverzichtbares regulatives Ideal.

The striving for an absolutely just world order may be a utopia, but it remains an indispensable regulative ideal.

High-level political philosophy.

Die architektonische Gestaltung des neuen Rathauses wird dem Anspruch einer bürgernahen und funktionsgerechten Verwaltung in vorbildlicher Weise gerecht.

The architectural design of the new town hall meets the demand for a citizen-oriented and functionally appropriate administration in an exemplary manner.

Formal architectural/administrative description.

Collocations courantes

ein gerechtes Urteil

eine gerechte Strafe

gerecht verteilen

gerecht werden

sozial gerecht

eine gerechte Lösung

gerecht behandeln

absolut gerecht

nicht gerecht

gerecht teilen

Phrases Courantes

Das ist nicht gerecht!

Jemandem gerecht werden

Einer Sache gerecht werden

Gerecht und billig

Es geht nicht gerecht zu

Souvent confondu avec

gerecht vs richtig (correct - factual vs moral)

gerecht vs fair (casual English loanword vs formal German word)

gerecht vs berechtigt (justified/having the right vs being fair)

Expressions idiomatiques

Facile à confondre

gerecht vs

Structures de phrases

Comment l'utiliser

semantic nuance

'Gerecht' implies a higher moral standard than simply following rules.

colloquial usage

Often replaced by 'fair' in youth language and casual contexts.

historical usage

Has always been a central term in German legal and philosophical texts.

Erreurs courantes

Confusing 'gerecht' (fair) with 'richtig' (correct).
Using the accusative instead of the dative with 'gerecht werden' (e.g., saying 'Ich werde ihn gerecht' instead of 'ihm gerecht').
Using 'gerecht' when 'berechtigt' (justified) is the correct word.
Forgetting to add adjective endings when using 'gerecht' before a noun (e.g., saying 'ein gerecht Richter' instead of 'ein gerechter Richter').
Overusing the English word 'fair' in formal writing where 'gerecht' would be more appropriate.

Astuces

Master the Dative

Always remember that 'gerecht werden' requires the dative case. Practice sentences like 'Ich werde den Erwartungen gerecht' to build muscle memory.

Learn the Antonym

Memorize 'ungerecht' alongside 'gerecht'. Using the 'un-' prefix is a common way to form opposites in German.

Fair vs. Gerecht

Use 'fair' when playing a game with friends. Use 'gerecht' when discussing a serious decision or a law.

Learn Chunks

Don't just learn the word; learn common phrases like 'ein gerechtes Urteil' (a fair verdict) or 'gerecht verteilen' (to distribute fairly).

Compound Adjectives

Look out for words ending in '-gerecht' (like 'umweltgerecht'). They mean 'fair/appropriate for' whatever the first part of the word is.

Stress the Root

The stress is on the second syllable: ge-RECHT. The 'ge-' prefix is always unstressed in German.

Not 'Richtig'

Never use 'gerecht' to say an answer on a test is correct. Use 'richtig' for facts and 'gerecht' for morals.

Soziale Gerechtigkeit

Pay attention to the term 'soziale Gerechtigkeit' in German news. It's a massive topic in their political landscape.

Expressing Opinion

Use 'Ich finde es (un)gerecht, dass...' to express your opinion strongly in written arguments or debates.

Context Clues

When reading, if you see 'gerecht', expect the text to be discussing ethics, rules, laws, or the treatment of people.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'ge-RIGHT'. If something is 'gerecht', it is 'right' and fair.

Origine du mot

Contexte culturel

Standard to formal. 'Fair' is often used informally.

Universally understood across all German-speaking regions.

Calling an action 'ungerecht' is a strong moral accusation.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"Findest du, dass unser Steuersystem gerecht ist?"

"War die Note in der Prüfung gerecht?"

"Was bedeutet soziale Gerechtigkeit für dich?"

"Ist es gerecht, dass manche Menschen so viel mehr verdienen?"

"Wie kann man Ressourcen auf der Welt gerechter verteilen?"

Sujets d'écriture

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du dich ungerecht behandelt gefühlt hast.

Was ist für dich ein gerechtes Gehalt?

Glaubst du, dass die Welt im Allgemeinen gerecht ist? Warum oder warum nicht?

Wie würdest du eine Torte absolut gerecht unter fünf Personen aufteilen?

Schreibe über eine historische Entscheidung, die du für sehr gerecht hältst.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

While they are often used interchangeably in everyday German, 'gerecht' carries more moral, ethical, and legal weight. 'Fair' is an English loanword used more casually, especially in sports or business. A judge's verdict is 'gerecht', while a sports match is 'fair'.

This phrase means 'to do justice to something' or 'to meet expectations'. It MUST be used with the dative case. For example: 'Der Film wird dem Buch gerecht' (The film does justice to the book).

It can be used for both. You can have a 'gerechter Lehrer' (fair teacher) or a 'gerechtes Urteil' (fair verdict). It describes the quality of fairness in a person's character or in an action/decision.

The noun form is 'die Gerechtigkeit', which translates to 'justice' or 'fairness'. It is a feminine noun and is used frequently in political and social contexts (e.g., 'soziale Gerechtigkeit').

The most direct antonym is 'ungerecht', formed by adding the negative prefix 'un-'. You can also use the English loanword 'unfair', which is very common in modern German.

No, 'gerecht' means fair or just. If you want to say something is factually correct (like a math answer), you must use 'richtig'. Confusing these two is a common mistake.

It is a compound adjective meaning 'fair based on performance'. It is often used in the context of salaries ('leistungsgerechte Bezahlung'), meaning you get paid according to how well or how much you work.

Yes, if it comes before a noun (attributive use), it takes standard adjective endings (e.g., 'ein gerechter Mann'). If it comes after the verb 'sein' (predicative use), it takes no ending (e.g., 'Der Mann ist gerecht').

It is standard German, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very casual speech, younger people might prefer 'fair'. In legal or political writing, 'gerecht' is essential.

The comparative is 'gerechter' (fairer) and the superlative is 'am gerechtesten' (fairest). For example: 'Das ist eine gerechtere Lösung' (That is a fairer solution).